British politician, Labour MP for Sheffield Heeley since 2015
Andy Burnham has won the Makerfield by‑election with nearly 55% of the vote, beating Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon by about 9,000 ballots. Burnham has returned to Parliament and has said he will enter any Labour leadership contest; his victory will increase pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to announce his plans for the party leadership.
Burnham secures a decisive Makerfield by-election win, paving the way for a potential leadership challenge to Prime Minister Starmer. He promises a shift away from ‘trickle‑down’ economics, calls for northern reindustrialisation, and a more responsive education system, while Starmer signals readiness to run if needed.
Labour MPs have criticised the UK government's shift towards renewable energy, calling for increased North Sea oil and gas exploration. Meanwhile, US President Trump has urged Britain to open North Sea oil fields, arguing it will boost energy security amid tensions in the Middle East. The debate highlights tensions between energy independence and climate commitments.